James Hutson

James Willard Hutson, 79, of Beardstown, died Thursday, May 30, 2024, at Blessing Hospital in Quincy.

He was born June 29, 1944, in Jacksonville, the son of Verlen "VM" and Helen Janice Schaeffer Hutson. He married Patricia Ailene Leslie on January 29, 1984, in Springfield.

He leaves behind a loving family, including his wife Patricia Hutson of 40 years; three sons Richard Keith 'Beaver' Hutson (wife Tina) of Beardstown, Carl David Blakenship (wife Patricia) of Decatur and James Todd Hutson of Burlington, IA; eight grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; a sister, Marsha Hutson of Glenwood Springs, CO; and several nieces and nephews. His parents and a brother, Larry Hutson, preceded him in death.

Jim attended Beardstown High School and was a member of First Christian Church in Beardstown. He knew hard work. He owned and operated Hutson Construction Inc. for ten years and was a heavy equipment operator with Freesen Inc for 33 years. He was a Local 965 Operating Engineers member and always worked with his hands, whether in mechanic work, carpentry, or fixing up antique tractors and participating in tractor pulls. He was an eight-time US Tractor Pull champion. Jim also loved to travel especially to Costa Rica. His stern demeanor wasn't to be fooled by his wealth of knowledge, and he would share it with anyone.

Cremation rites have been accorded, and a memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, June 7, 2024, at First Christian Church in Beardstown, with Pastor Mike Courson officiating. The family will meet with friends one hour before the services at the church on Friday. Colwell Memorial Home in Beardstown is in charge of arrangements.

Memorials have been suggested to First Christian Church. Condolences may be left online at www.colwellmemorialhome.com or on Facebook at Colwell Memorial Home.